Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on November 7, 2024, that North Korean troops have engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces in a major escalation of the ongoing conflict.
This development was announced during a press conference at the European Political Community summit held in Budapest, Hungary. Zelensky revealed that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in Russia's Kursk region, which is near the Ukrainian border.
The confirmation follows statements made by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to South Korean television network KBS, indicating that battles between North Korean and Ukrainian troops had already occurred in Kursk.
This news comes at a critical juncture as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office. Trump has been vocal about his criticism of U.S. military aid to Ukraine and has suggested that Ukraine should negotiate a deal with Russia instead. The potential shift in U.S. policy under Trump's administration could massively impact the dynamics of the conflict.
Simultaneously, Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended congratulations to Trump on his election victory and expressed his readiness to engage in discussions with the incoming American leader.
This willingness to communicate suggests a possible reset in U.S.-Russia relations, which could further influence the situation in Ukraine. Putin's openness to dialogue with Trump was reported on November 7, 2024, highlighting the geopolitical implications of the recent U.S. election results.
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